Form and Function as Categories of Comparison

Abstract

Three different ways in which comparisons-in terms of both form and function-have been conceptualized in previous models are reviewed, to provide elaboration of Bornstein's argument. These include (i) Kagan's three types of continuity in ontogeny; (ii) Baltes's and Nesselroade's four types of factor change and continuity; and (iii) Kojima's three meanings of tradition in history of ideas and practices in a culture. It is noted that Bornstein's conceptualization is concerned mainly with cross-contextual comparisons rather than with ontogeny or cultural history. Multiple meanings of his usage of context and function are noted, together with the narrow meaning of form. A case is made that a kind of universalism is required in any meaningful comparison either across time or across culture.